Paramedics tend to a woman at the side of the street after people were mowed down by a truck in New York

London’s mayor Sadiq Khan paid tribute to the victims, saying: “London stands in grief and solidarity with the great city of New York tonight after the despicable and cowardly terrorist attack in Manhattan.

“My heart goes out to the victims and their families.

“New Yorkers are strong and resilient – I know they will not be cowed by this assault on the innocent, and on our shared values and way of life.”

The Foreign Office said it is standing by to provide assistance to any Britons affected by the atrocity.

New York terror attacker who drove truck down cycle path in lower Manhattan has been named as Sayfullo Saipov

A spokesman said: “We are in contact with the local authorities and stand ready to provide any assistance but are not aware of any British citizens involved as yet.”

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said it was a “lone wolf” attack, and there was no evidence it was part of a wider plot.

Police said the vehicle, a rented Home Depot truck, entered the cycle path on West Street and mowed down several people.

The truck also smashed into a yellow school bus, injuring two adults and two children.